IAF commemorates 25 years of Tejas LCA's maiden flight

Milestone flight paved way for IAF induction and advanced variants

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The Indian Air Force yesterday commemorated the 25th anniversary of home grown Tejas Light Combat Aircraft's (LCA) historic first flight.

"On the 25th anniversary of Tejas LCA's historic first flight, #IAF reflects on enduring partnership in building this fighter. Congratulations to ADA's innovative scientists, HAL's skilled engineers, brave IAF & IN test pilots/engineers, and all IAF personnel who've championed self-reliance. Sky is the limit!" the IAF said on social media.

The historic flight occurred on January 4, 2001, with Wing Commander Rajiv Kothiyal piloting the Technology Demonstrator (TD-1) from Bengaluru's HAL Airport.

This initiated the flight testing phase for the aircraft, eventually leading to its induction into the Indian Air Force and the development of advanced variants like the Tejas Mk1A.